IFR press release

President´s Report

Robots improve manufacturing success and create jobs!

March 2013

Dear Reader,

Robots improve manufacturing success and create jobs! This was the result of the update of the IFR research study titled "Positive Impact of Industrial Robots on employment" conducted by METRA MARTECH Limited, London, UK. Two robot users from the United States, Drew Greenblatt, Marlin Steel and Matt Tyler, Vickers Engineering confirmed this during the IFR CEO Round Table discussion at the Automate in Chicago back in January 2013. Both companies integrated industrial robots in their manufacturing processes and increased productivity, competiveness and jobs. Robots have helped create opportunities for safer and more interesting jobs. As a result of their success the companies are paying employees higher wages and providing them with better benefits.

The CEO Round Table and the results of the study created a strong media interest and initiated lots of discussions on robotics.

Despite the weak global economic development in 2012 the demand for global robot sales almost reached the all-time-high level of 2011. Investments in robotics and automation are ongoing worldwide!

China is becoming the most important robot market. We are looking forward to the China International Robot Show CIROS from 2 to 5 July 2013 in Shanghai, where the Chinese and international robot suppliers will show their innovations and solutions. The IFR will have a booth there. An IFR CEO Round Table on "The Future of Robotics on China" is scheduled as well. We expect a great media interest.